ome people, well, make that most people, don't like to live with an age spot blemish, especially if it's in an extremely noticeable location, such as the face or the hands. An age spot is also called a liver spot, or solar lentigines, or, less kindly, senile lentigines. Unfortunately, most people will develop them, and while there's not much one can do to prevent them, there are a few remedies to encourage them to fade.

An age spot is a darkened spot of skin that is usually located where the skin has been exposed to sun over time, and is caused by an increase in pigment in certain areas of the skin. As people age, their skin becomes less supple and elastic, and fragile. At around 40 years old, age spot development becomes common, and are most often found on the back of the hands, forearms, shoulders, face and forehead, any area where there is a high exposure to sunlight. While harmless and painless, they do cause sufferers a great deal of consternation when trying to conceal them. In most cases, the appearance of an age spot is permanent.

Have you noticed that as you age, your skin seems to tear or bruise easier than ever before? This natural aging condition causes skin cells to become more susceptible to ultraviolet light. Keep in mind that certain locations where perfume or cosmetics are worn may also appear darker. The first sign that an age spot or liver spot will develop is a patch of skin that starts to take on a different color than surrounding tissues, usually light brown to dark brown, although some people experience an almost black patch of skin growing, usually on the arms and hands.

While there is no recommended medical treatment for an age spot, skin bleaching lotions and creams may help to fade the darkened patches, and for severe cases, a procedure known as cryotherapy, or freezing of tissue may be suggested if you suffer from an extreme number of them. While not medically harmful, the psychological affect of age spots for many people leads to self-conscious embarrassment, so if you just can't live with your skin changes, a visit to your doctor or dermatologist is suggested. They will be able to explain options for medically directed treatment for your specific needs and condition.

To prevent age spot or liver spot development, try to take precautions when outdoors, such as wearing protective clothing, always using sun block with an SPF of 15 or higher and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Most people are getting into the habit of using sun block during spring and summer months, and then forget that they also need protection from ultraviolet rays during the wintertime too.

Growing older is no fun, but you can slow the onslaught of time and help to protect your skin and health by following general health guidelines and maintaining good habits when enjoying the great outdoors. Better late than never, so if you didn't use sunscreen before, start doing so now.

Be aware that if you are in your late middle age or heading into senior territory that such age-related change in the skin may also place you at greater risk for skin conditions. Even dry skin changes might set the stage for severe itching that could injure the skin and infections could result.